Elsie Kehler (1918-2010), long-time Water Island resident, died on March 24, in Greenfield, Massachusetts, following complications from a fall in August 2009. She and her husband, Gordon, bought their Water Island house in 1964, and for many years after her husband’s death (up until 2008), it was Elsie’s official residence.
Elsie was present on Water Island during the early “Walter Phillips” years and had the reputation of being energetic, resourceful and even daring. She and Gordon sailed a 16’ Cape Cod Bulls Eye, and later she and friend Arthur Watres circumnavigated St. Thomas in it (sailing from dawn until well after dark). Elsie was on island during several hurricanes, though none did any damage to her house. She was devoted to Water Island and at one point served as president of WICA. She introduced her children, grandchildren, and even two great grandchildren to Water Island, and they all thank her for it. She will be greatly missed.